I've been mulling over this for a while now, and I've decided to go ahead and shut down this blog. Fom today forward, I will no longer be posting anything to this account or updating the posts on here. Reason being is just from burnout from translating, and lack of time after switching jobs last year.
I'm not leaving the fandom or anything, and will continue sharing translated tidbits of lore and such that we find out from updates to the JP server. It's just that I will no longer be doing the full-length translations of voice lines, vignettes, and main story updates that I've been posting on this account.
I'm forever grateful to all of you for reading my translations and for always encouraging me and supporting my work, and I was also able to meet so, so many wonderful people through this account. I appreciate each and every one of you, and I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may bring. 🙇🏽♀️
alright bye bye!! ≡_(ゝヽε:)ﾉ (but not really skjfkdsf)
Following is my translation of Epel's voice lines for his clubwear card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🍎: What, you really think you can block me? Go ahead and try!
🍎: Soon as we hit the court, doesn't matter anymore if you're a junior or a senior or whatever! And I don't wanna stay benched forever, so it's time to go hard or go home!
Home Lines
🍎: You really shouldn't underestimate me.
🍎: I remember when I first joined the team, the other players really looked down on me. But ever since I pulled off a header during a match, it's kinda like they all see me in a whole new light now.
🍎: I'm gonna use some apples I got sent over from Harveston and pickle 'em with honey for our next match. They taste a whole lot better than honeyed lemons.
🍎: Us first years always gotta stay behind after practice and clean up. *sigh* I'm jealous of the seniors.
🍎: I've been dreaming of becoming a spelldrive player for years now. Scoring a win with your teammates is like the best feeling ever.
🍎: I wanna practice making shots, but it really sucks having to go and get the disk each time. Boy, I suuuure do wish I knew somebody who could help me out!
🍎: Leona-san's advice is always right on the mark. I just wish he'd join in on practice more and check our technique and stuff.
🍎: It's really hard trying to predict whenever Ruggie-san's gonna make a pass. I've been whacked by disks more times than I can count during practice.
🍎: We wear these goggles to protect our eyes from the wind and grit flying around when we're up in the air. Honestly, just putting them on gets me all fired up. They're really cool, dontcha think?
🍎: Back home, I'd hop on my broom and fly around picking apples. I got a lotta good practice ducking between branches and stuff, so maybe that's helped me with playing spelldrive.
🍎: Huh? I got a sunburn!? Noooo… And Vil-san told me to be careful when practicing outside…
🍎: I gotta make sure I stay calm whenever somebody breaks the rules. Could you maybe bad mouth me, as like a test?
Groovy
🍎: Haaah, haaah… I don't care how hard it gets, I'm never gonna give up. We're gonna win this thing, just you watch!
Twisted Wonderland - 2024 Player Birthday Login Greetings
The player birthday login greetings have just updated today on the JP server for the fourth anniversary, and I've translated them below.
These are sorted in order of dorm, and then alphabetically by character name.
Heartslabyul
Ace Trappola
❤️: 'Sup, Yuu! Happy bday. 'Kay, time for the party. I'm gonna swing by this one restaurant in town and pick us up some grub, so you wait here and- Hey, hey, I'm not trying to trick you! I do know how to celebrate birthdays, thank you very much.
Cater Diamond
♦️: Happy bday, Yuu-chan ☆ Didja post anything bday related yet on Magicam today? No? No problem, just leave it to me! I'm basically a Magicam pro at this point. I'll take the perfect pic, come up with the perfect hash tag… Just think of it as, like, the Caycay bday special~
Deuce Spade
♠️: Happy birthday, Yuu! I'm going to go buy your present now, so- …Huh? You're saying since I fixed up that light for you in Ramshackle the other day, I don't need to get you anything? Come on, don't say that. You're my friend, so let me do this for you. It'd make me a lot more happier than if I didn't get you anything, to be honest.
Riddle Rosehearts
🌹: Happy birthday, Yuu. Thank you so much for always looking after my students. Truth is, we'll be holding a salon at Heartslabyul this weekend, and as part of my well wishes to you, I'm going to have you join us. Ah, my apologies. I can see you're quite nervous, but you needn't worry - I'll be right there with you, and will instruct you in etiquette every step of the way.
Trey Clover
🍀: Happy birthday. Now about your gift… I did get you something, but it's, erm… When I was talking with the other students about your gift, one person would say to get you this, and then another'd say, no, get that, and after a lot of hemming and hawing I chose… this t-shirt. I don't even know anymore why I picked out this design, honestly… Ugh, if you could just go ahead and start laughing now, I'd appreciate it.
Savanaclaw
Jack Howl
🐺: Today's your birthday, right? You make any new goals for the year? What, you're gonna smoke me in class? Ha! That's the best joke I've heard in a while. But alright, I'll take you on. If you get a better grade than me on our next exam, I'll buy you something.
Leona Kingscholar
🦁: Yeah, yeah, happy birthday. …Why are you settin' up that chessboard? What, you've been takin' lessons just to beat me? An' lemme guess, now you're challengin' me to a match. You got guts - for a herbivore, at least. So whaddya gonna wager, then? Just "playin' to see who wins" ain't gonna cut it.
Ruggie Bucchi
🍩: Happy birthday! Yer dear ol' Ruggie Senpai whipped up just the perfect thing for ya. Ta-da! Yer very own fishin' pole! Handmade by yours truly. …Ooh, I know that look. I bet yer thinking', "ain't that just a piece a crap?" I'm tellin' ya, fish'll be linin' up to throw themselves at this bad boy soon as it hits the water! Listen, I know how much starvin' sucks, an' I can tell you know that, too. Next time yer stomach starts howlin' at ya, now you can just catch yerself somethin' to eat!
Octavinelle
Azul Ashengrotto
🐙: I wish you a very happy birthday. Have you already decided what you'd like for a gift? I'd be glad to arrange-… My, what excellent taste! That would be quite the challenge for the average collector to acquire… but not for me, of course! I guarantee you'll have it in your hands before you even realize it.
Floyd Leech
🦈: Heya, Little Shrimpy. Today's your birthday, right? Here, I got something for ya. Let's see, we got some gummies that taste kinda funny, and some cookies…. they're hard as rocks, though. Oh, and some mushy jerky, too. Super cool, huh? Oh yeah, and all this stuff expires today, by the way. You better not let any of it go to waste, since it's a gift an' all. Kay?
Jade Leech
🐬: My warmest wishes to you on your birthday. May this be another fruitful year for you. By the way, Yuu-san, have you already had lunch today? You haven't? Excellent, for I was hoping to prepare something for you. Worry not, I can assure you I have only the utmost best of intentions in mind. Heh heh.
Scarabia
Jamil Viper
🐍: Yuu, happy birthday. I know it's not much, but I got you this. Ramshackle's been around for so long I can't even begin to imagine how many insects have made it their home over the years. But if you use that product, you can wipe them all out in a blink of an eye. I can personally vouch for how well it works, so do go ahead and give it try. Sooner rather than later, please.
Kalim Al Asim
☀️: Yuu, happy birthday! Here's your gift… Ah ha ha! Were you surprised? I made you that pop-up card. There's these flowers we give to people on their birthdays back home in Scalding Sands, so I tried making a bunch of them with paper. Turned out pretty good, right? Nice and flashy.
Pomefiore
Epel Felmier
🍎: Happy birthday! I thought long and hard about what to get you, and ended up going with a pair of fingerless gloves! The design on em's just great, don't you think? I thought they'd be a good choice since you can still use your phone and stuff without them getting in the way. They already look super cool, and once you break them in, then they'll really start to shine. Wear them as much as you can, okay?
Rook Hunt
🏹: I've been waiting for you, Trickster, so that I might give you my birthday well wishes. A wonderful day calls for making wonderful memories, and to that end, I've constructed the perfect itinerary for us. We'll start off with two theater performances, followed by a live poetry recital, and then we'll wrap things up with a movie this evening. There shan't be a dull moment today. Now come! The theater awaits!
Vil Schoenheit
👑: Happy birthday, Yuu. …Hm? You'd like me to come to your party? And you you even went and made sure there'll be healthy food options available for me? …Hah, that's quite thoughtful of you. Very well, then. I'll stop by. Just don't forget - you should consider it an honor to receive my well wishes.
Ignihyde
Idia Shroud
💀: Okay, time to pretend we're all chummy with each other and spout the usual "HaPpY BiRtHdAy" garbage… Eep! D-did you hear all that? U-Umm… Happy birthday... Sorry, but I didn't get you anything. I didn't even know it was your bday, so… What, you're happy just 'cause I wished you happy birthday? Are you serious? *sigh* Okay, I'll order something online later and have it sent to Ramshackle. It's just gonna be something small, tho.
Ortho Shroud
🤖: Happy birthday! Here's your gift. Go ahead, open it! Heh heh, did you notice what's on it? I used my lasers to engrave "Happy Birthday!" and some other well wishes on that glass tumbler. It was difficult controlling the output when doing the finer details, but I think it came out pretty nice. I hope you like it!
Diasomnia
Lilia Vanrouge
🦇: Ah, that's right. Today's your birthday, isn't it? Goodness, kids really do grow up so fast… Kufufu. Oh, don't be so sour. I was just doing my grandpa bit, the boys at the dorm never indulge me. Now then, here's your present: a CD I made just for you! It's jam-packed with my most heartfelt screamo performances, and I hope you enjoy every second of it.
Malleus Draconia
🐲: It's your birthday today, isn't it, Child of Man? …? What's the matter? Your face looks awfully stern… Ah, now I understand. You're having trouble carrying around all those presents. Here, allow me to send them to Ramshackle for you using my magic. You needn't worry, it's but a trivial spell for me. Now then, I hope you enjoy today to the fullest.
Sebek Zigvolt
⚡: Today is your birthday, if I do recall… What? You wish for me to attend your party? What a boorish joke. I've no time to take part in such a… What? THE YOUNG LORD SHALL BE ATTENDING!? YOU SHOULD'VE MENTIONED THAT TO BEGIN WITH! Good grief… You truly are an unpleasant little human, you know that? Now then, tell me at once where the party shall be held, and at what time!
Silver
⚔️: Happy birthday. Hm? You want to know what this cord is? It's actually your present. I heard about this from Lilia Senpai, but… apparently, they say that if you wrap some string around your wrist or ankle, and it breaks over time, then your wish will come true. I wove this for you, so that your wish can come true some day. I know it's pretty crude looking, but please go ahead and take it, if you'd like.
Ramshackle
😺: Today's your birthday? Happy birthday! …Huh? Where's your present? Oh, come oooon. You're my number one henchman! Ain't that a present enough? Okay, fine. Your lap's always super hard when I sit on it, so I'll give ya a good ol' fashioned paw pad massage!
Following is my translation of Sebek's voice lines for his platinum jacket card.
Spoilers after the cut
Summon
⚡: A hundred years of history are contained within this museum… Doubtless, portraits of our liege shall someday grace its halls.
⚡: We're to be supporters, eh… Very well, no matter the task, I always give it my maximum attention. Nary a patron shall pass me by without learning of the museum's splendor!
Home Lines
⚡: LET US CELEBRATE THE CENTENNIAL!
⚡: The card soldiers endeavored to satisfy each of the Queen of Heart's grueling demands, and I do not blame Deuce for admiring them so.
⚡: He keeps yawning, but could it be? That man there, admiring the artwork with such a serious gaze, could it really be Leona Senpai…?
⚡: For sixteen years the Thorn Fairy's subordinates worked diligently on a strenuous mission given to them by their Lady. What astounding loyalty!
⚡: Naturally, fine art is included amongst my studies. As one of Lord Malleus's retainers, one can never acquire too much knowledge.
⚡: That blasted Ace. He poked fun at me and then ran off. Don't just up and leave while someone's talking!
⚡: Even when surrounded by a swarm of soldiers, her magnificence is unparalleled. As expected of the Thorn Fairy; 'tis only natural she should be counted amongst the Great Seven.
⚡: As one of the Young Lord's guards, 'tis necessary for me to wear this sort of formal attire - and to wear it well.
⚡: Vil Senpai made a rather strange analogy earlier, about how painting is not unlike applying makeup, but I couldn't quite understand what he meant. I can't see how they're possibly related.
⚡: When admiring artwork in person, one is able to observe in great detail the texture of the paint, and where the artist left their brushstrokes behind. 'Tis not something one can gleam just from reading books.
⚡: You wish to explain this piece to me? You've no need - is what I'd normally say, however, I shall use this as an opportunity to ensure your docent skills are up to par.
⚡: What is it? Ah, you wish to enquire on my gift shop purchases? Very well, then. Behold! A towel with the Thorn Fairy's design on it!
Groovy
⚡: There's no telling just what lurks within the shadows of that forest, and yet she simply stands there, conversing with those beasts without a care in the world… What a thoughtless little human.
DUO
⚡: ROUSE YOURSELF, ACE!
❤️: Geez, Sebek! R.I.P. my eardrums!
I posted a summary of this card's vignette on my twitter account here.
Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 7 (Part 3)
Following is part 3 of my translation of Chapter 7 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss. This part contains Episode 7-112 to 7-116. This concludes Chapter 7.
Main storyline spoilers after the cut.
Episode 7-112
Idia: G-Get me outta heeeeeeere!! W-Why are Malleus-Shi and a Styx unit having a sudden death match in the middle of school?? And that getup, don't tell me… Malleus-Shi overblotted…!?
Ortho: Uwaaah!? The sky's splitting apart!?
Idia: Eep! W-What is it now!?
Malleus: …This dream is beginning to fall apart.
Ortho: Fall apart?
Malleus: You are not meant to exist within this dream. And now that you have appeared here before your older brother, his "happily ever after" will be no more. Little Shroud, I see now I've no reason to fight you. I can simply let you be consumed by the abyss, together with this crumbling dream.
(Malleus teleports away)
Idia: Huh!? W-Waaait! Malleus-Shi, t-take me with yoooou!!!!
Ortho: …Now I understand. I- This humanoid version of Ortho, I only exist because of what happened that day. And by being here in this dream world, where big brother is supposed to have his "happily ever after", I'm causing a temporal paradox!
(The Darkness appears)
Idia: Ugh! The heck's this black goop!? It- It's dragging me down…!
Ortho: Big brother! Here, take my hand! And don't let go!!
Idia: Dude, you're gonna rip my arm off…!!
(An alarm beeps)
Head Engineer: Or-kun, can you hear me? You need to get out of there!
Idia: Is that… Is that mom!?
Ortho: But I can't leave without big brother!
Head Engineer: The spell's formulation is being rapidly rewritten. If you stay there any longer, we'll lose your signal and you won't be able to come back! This is a direct order: retreat at once!!
Ortho: Ugh…!
Idia: Ortho? This unit is… Ortho…? AUGH! M-My head…!
Ortho: Big brother! No, don't let go of my hand…! Ah-!
(Idia is dragged down into the Darkness)
Idia: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!
Ortho: BIG BROTHER! I promise… I promise we'll come save you…!
Episode 7-113
Idia: What is… this place…? It's so cold… and dark… and lonely. This feels so… familiar. …I…
???: Oh, come on! We had that big, emotional goodbye, and now you're coming back already? Boooo. I dunno what's going on, but I can already tell this is gonna be a pain in the ass.
Idia: Huh? ….WHAT THE!? A PH-PHANTOM….!?
Ortho (Phantom): Yo, big bro. How's it going? Welcome to the Underworld! It's a little dark, a little gloomy, but hey, what are you gonna do?
Idia: Wh-…. WHAAAAAAT!? W-What in the actual hell, man!? First that virtual bishounen and that Styx unit kept calling me "big brother"… and now this friggin' huge ass phantom is calling me "big bro"!? M-My little brother is a good kid, and he goes to school at Royal Sword Academy… I think I'd remember having a pair of uber intense brothers like you guys, thank you!! Even for a nightmare this is way too much! Please, if this is a dream, just let me wake up already!!
Ortho (Phantom): Huh? I go to Royal Sword Academy? Ahhahahaha! Now that sounds like a nightmare to me. Or a delusion, even. Sorry, but Ortho's stuck in this gross ass pit, not at some gaudy school.
Idia: Y-You're lying… Ortho's an extrovert with tons of friends, and he-
Ortho (Phantom): Friends? Oh, yeah. I got lots of those. They're all phantoms, though, and all they ever do is moan and groan. Not big talkers, those guys.
Idia: That's impossible. T-There's no way Ortho's stuck in the Underworld! We're not even supposed to go down here! Ortho is… My little brother is…!!
Ortho (Phantom): …Big bro. It's not your fault I'm here. Stop blaming yourself already. Remember what you promised me? You said you wouldn't give up, you said you'd keep pushing on and make all our dreams come true. Are you really just gonna curl up in a little ball and stay down here forever?
Idia: Our dreams…? …Augh..! My… head…!
(Idia has a flashback)
Ortho: We can leave for real this time and go far away.
Idia: …Just leave it to your big bro.
(The flashback ends)
Idia: Haaah, haaah… I-I remember now… This is where I…! A-aauugh!! That's right, there is where I… Aauuugh…!
(Idia lets out a guttural scream as he remembers everything)
Idia: …..How… How could I forget… How could I forget something so important to me… I remember… everything…!
Episode 7-114
Idia: This is where I overblotted… Me and Ortho were aiming for the stars but we… but our classmates smoked us… The fuck did I tell him "just leave it to your big bro" for… My little brothers are always having to swoop in and save the day for me. I'm such a fucking loser…
(Idia has a flashback)
Ortho: I need you to help me save the world, Idia Shroud!
(The flashback ends)
Idia: …Listen, I dunno know what the hell's going on, but I do know Ortho needs my help. I have to get out of here… I have to find him.
Ortho (Phantom): Oh-hoh, didja finally wake up? That's great and all, but, uh, aren't you forgetting one teensy-weensy, but ever so crucial, little tiny detail?
Idia: Huh?
Ortho (Phantom): You know the gate's only supposed to be one way, right? And as the King of the Underworld, I can't just let spirits come in and out here like they own the place. Don't wanna look bad in front of the other phantoms.
Idia: Heh heh… You got some balls calling yourself the King of the Underworld. You're the one who's forgetting something here, my guy. You remember that curse you have? No wait- that blessing. The one that burns all your blot… Well, I got it too. This place is like one massive buff for my ATK and Magic stats. I'm broken, dude! *breathes in, breathes out* Okay, just gotta envision, like, my ultimate form…! HAAAAAA!!!
(Idia forces himself to overblot)
Ortho (Phantom): What, you wanna fight me?
Idia: Okay, you little snot nosed brat. Your big bro's gonna show you who's boss!
Ortho (Phantom): Augh…! N-No, how could I lose…! The hell's going on!? It's like all the blot's under his control!?
Idia: Boom-bada boom, boom, boom! Ha ha ha! Oh, please. You gonna start crying for your mommy? If that's all you got, forget about calling yourself king, you cocky little shit. Imma take my throne back and you can be my substitute whenever I'm gone. New Achievement Unlocked: "King of the Underworld" title earned! Ahh Ha ha!!
Ortho (Phantom): Uuugh…!!
Idia: Aaaah haa ha! Aaaah ha haa! Ah-Auuughh… *cough cough* …. Haaah, haaah…. That's right. I'm not gonna let you be king of this gross place forever. And that's why I can't stay here forever, either. I have to go. Game, Set, Match. Gate to the Underworld!!
(The gate opens and Idia escapes)
Ortho (Phantom): ….Take care, big bro. All the stars in the sky are waiting for you out there.
Episode 7-115
(Beeep beeep)
Idia: …..Ugh, would ya shuddup… Who is it?
(Idia answers the phone)
???: Ah, you finally picked up. It’s morning already, come on.
Idia: …Who are you?
Ortho?: Who am I…? What, did you forget your own little brother? It’s me, Ortho.
Idia: Ortho? …Guess it was all just a dream….. Heh….. Heh heh heeeheeehee!!
Ortho?: Uh, is everything okay?
Idia: Those crazy good drop rates and pulls I've been getting, Muscle Red not giving up gaming anymore, me going to orientation in person…. It was aaaaalll just a dream! Yup, it was just 100% my otaku fantasies!
Ortho?: Umm… What the heck are you talking about?
Idia: Uh-uh, that's my line, bro. There's no way in hell my little brother would go to Royal Sword Academy, all the dumbass rainbows and sparkles would make him SICK. I only have two little brothers: The humanoid one that goes to NRC with me, and the other one who's down in the Underworld!!
Ortho?: !! W-Wait, big bro! Just listen to me!
Idia: I'm soooo sorry, but the only people I'm okay with calling me "big bro" are anime and video game characters. Like, who even are you? And who's in charge of this gross ass dream? Is this a hallucinogenic spell? Was I kidnapped by some evil org and they've got, like, a brain washing helmet on me? Whatever's going on, you guys need to get yourselves a new scenario writer, stat. 'Cause I mean, really? Resetting the dream just 'cause I didn't get the Good End? That is beyond lame. Listen, I don't care what happens. I'm the only one who gets to decide if I get my "happily ever after" or not!! Expect a strongly worded letter from me sent to your customer service department!! Bye!!
(Idia hangs up the phone)
Episode 7-116
Idia: …You there, Ortho?
Ortho: Welcome back, big brother. I'm surprised you made it back here all by yourself. We had a lot of trouble reentering your dream on our end.
Idia: Hey, Ortho. Lemme, uhh.. apologize first. I know I've hurt you a lot, and I… I'm really sorry.
Ortho: Before you continue, there's something I want to say, too… I went to outer space all by myself! And I had this totally awesome battle with Malleus-san, it was so cool. This whole time while you've been asleep, I've been going on all these amazing adventures. I bet they'd even put the hero of Star Rogue to shame! Now don't you think there's something else you should be saying to me besides "I'm sorry"?
Idia: …Ortho, that's amazing. I can tell how hard you've been working. You're, like, the coolest guy in the world in my book. You're kind of making your big brother look bad here, though.
Ortho: Heh heh! Are you even surprised though? Don't forget… I'm the world's foremost humanoid, made by the one and only mad genius himself!
Idia: Heh. Yeah, you're right. Maybe one day you and me really will take over the whole galaxy together… Joking, of course. Ok, with that out of the way…. Uhhh, I remember going to sleep and all, but could you maybe explain what the hell is going on!??
Idia: *siiiiiiiigh* I wanna say I totally understand everything you just said… But my brain, like, short circuited after you said mom went through all my stuff. Only other thing I've understood so far is Malleus-Shi went overboard with the cheat codes.
Ortho: M-Mom had too! It was an emergency! Please don't feel too down about it.
Idia: You gotta be kidding me, dude. There's no way she didn't see that and oh yeah that too… Uuuggh… Why… Why me… WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THIS!? I'm just an innocent bystander! I didn't even friggin' go to the farewell party!! So why!! Why did my mom have to look through my computer!! …Ugh, just make it make sense, man… I feel like I just took 50 billion points of psychic damage….
(Idia collapes to the ground)
Ortho: Erm, I mean, yeah. I don't think anybody could've seen this coming, and it's unfortunate what happened… B-But it's okay! Mom didn't even really say anything about what she saw on your PC, so…
Idia: NOOOOO! Stop, stop, stop! Her being nice about it just makes it a million times worse!! You guys are lucky I can't accumulate blot or else I'd totally be overblotting right now!!! Fucking hell, Malleus-Shiiiii!!! Oh, he is so not getting away with this! I bet he thinks he's soooo cool, but I'm not gonna rest until he's on his hands and knees with snot and tears running all over his face begging me for mercy! Now, let's see. What'll I do to him…. Eh heh heh heh!!
Ortho: Uh-oh, I'm almost scared to ask what you're planning… Heh. He really picked the wrong guy to mess with.
Idia: Heh heh… Dude's never even seen my final form before, and now that my Underworld training arc's over he doesn't even stand a chance. You wait right there for me, Malleus Draconia… I'm gonna expose every single fucking weakness you got and make you PAY FOR THIS!!!
Part 1
Part 2
(TL Note: The flashback lines I took from the official ENG translation. Also took some lines from Disney's "Hercules" for Ortho in some parts.)
Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 7 (Part 2)
Following is part 2 of my translation of Chapter 7 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss. This part contains Episode 7-107 to 7-111.
Main storyline spoilers after the cut.
Episode 7-107
Ortho: Pretty much our only option is to try and convince Malleus-san to bring down the domain himself and let everybody go. 'Cause if you destroy a server, you'll just end up destroying all the data its got inside it, too. How about we do something like go up to the barrier and shout, "Hey, Malleus-san! You're making your grandma cry over here!!" You know, like they do in those old crime dramas.
Chief: …We'll certainly reach out to Queen Maleficia, at any rate.
Head Engineer: I wish it were as simple as just getting an overblotter's family member to talk them out of it, honey. Then Styx wouldn't always have so much trouble on our hands.
Ortho: So what, are you guys saying we should give up?
Head Engineer: Now, now, Or-kun. Did you forget what you just said?
Ortho: Huh? What do you- You mean when I was talking about trying to convince Malleus to let everybody go?
Head Engineer: Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner!
Ortho: But mom, you said so yourself, it's not as simple as just talking an overblotter out of it.
Head Engineer: As long as you've got even the slightest chance of success, it's worth a try. Besides… I've already thought of a different approach.
Ortho: A different approach?
Head Engineer: Here, can you tell me what this is, Or-kun?
Ortho: Hm? That's a video of… big brother!? Where'd you even get this from? Waaaait a second… That's weird. Where's my maintenance dock? We kept it in big brother's room even after I enrolled and moved into my own room… No way, is this a video of…!?
Head Engineer: That's right. This is a live feed, direct from Idia's dream.
Ortho: Whaaaaaat!??
Head Engineer: Finding a back door's a cinch as long as you understand the source code. And that goes for magical domains, too! And now that we're inside… We can make contact with all the dreamers without Malleus finding out.
Ortho: I-I mean, I understand what you're saying, but still… That's crazy. It feels like I blinked and you already analyzed the domain and even figured out the address for big brother's dream.
Head Engineer: Heh heh! So what do you think? This is the power of human innovation right here! Just you watch, I'm going to dig up each and every address and make my own admin system right under his nose! Hehhehehe….!
Chief: She's been like this ever since she went through the logs of your fight with Malleus… She's even got the data processing and engineering departments going into over drive.
Ortho: Gotcha. She's probably got a grudge against Malleus for saying her tech was pathetic. Heh, sounds like something mom would do. She and big brother really are a lot alike… But I'm glad.
Chief: About what?
Ortho: Big brother looks like he's having a lot of fun in his dream. I know it sounds weird, but I'm just glad to see him so happy.
Chief: I see. Yes, I understand how you feel.
Episode 7-108
Head Engineer: Anyways, it looks like everybody on that island is having the same kind of nice, pleasant dreams as your big brother. Everyone's fast asleep, getting lots of good rest while they're dreaming… Their magic and strength reserves must be all topped up by now, and that's why I'm thinking they're probably going to get bored of these dreams pretty soon. …Well, maybe.
Ortho: So this different approach you were talking about, it's… We're going to make contact with the dreamers and have them take care of Malleus-san for us!?
Head Engineer: Correct! If we can't do anything out here, our only choice is to fight him from the inside!
Ortho: Whaaaat!? No way, that'll never… Wait, but maybe… If we can make contact with the dreamers, then maybe this really will work. If you give up before you even try, your probability of success will be stuck at zero forever. Even if you have a 0.001% probability at succeeding, at long as it's not a zero, then you've got a chance to take that 0.001% and transform it into a one hundred. So there's no reason not to give it a shot. Okay, let's do this. I'll dive into the magical circuitry, enter big brother's dream, and…
Head Engineer: Hang on there, Or-kun.
Ortho: What's the matter? I'm just going to make contact with big brother, that's all. It's not like it's going to be dangerous or anything…
Chief: I'll take over from here, head engineer. We do have one major concern about your making contact with Idia.
Ortho: What?
Chief: Your brother might reject the truth- …he might reject you.
Ortho: …!
Chief: You noticed how your maintenance dock was gone from his room, remember? I'm sure you understand perfectly well what all that implies. You might just end up getting hurt very badly again, Ortho.
Ortho: …
Chief: We're going to reach out to some psychological experts so we can explain the situation as calmly as possible to him, without anyone having to get hurt-
Ortho: You don't have to worry.
Chief / Head Engineer: Huh?
Ortho: I know my big brother. I know as soon as he sees me he'll go, like, "OMG this bishounen humanoid inside my computer is asking me for help?!? Wait, don't tell me what happens next, I've seen this same thing play out like a billion times before in my light novels!! The time's finally come, right!? I'm finally going to become the chosen one!!?"
Chief: Erm, I'm not sure he'd say all… that…
Head Engineer: Honestly, I can see it.
Ortho: Well, regardless how he reacts, I know big brother will listen to us. He's Idia Shroud, the mad genius raised by the chief and head engineer of Styx, remember? Instead of trying to be amicable here and taking the long way around, I say we take a shortcut, instead!
Episode 7-109
Gloomurai: dude you killed it today
Gloomurai: lets hit up that new tundra map tomorrow~
Gloomurai: k im gonna bounce. ggs!
<muscle red has logged off>
Idia: Maaan, that dungeon raid today was just… The drop rate was friggin' insane!!! I might be able to max out the armor for both my main and my sub-job now. Come to think of it, I also got three event SSRs in a row for my oshi this week, too… Uh-oh, now I'm getting a bad feeling about this. I'm never this lucky… Just watch, all my stuff's gonna crash so hard tomorrow I won't even be able to recover any of my data.
(Idia gets an incoming call on his PC)
Idia: Huh? Ortho's trying to face time me? Wonder why he's calling my online game account, that's weird. Wait, does Ortho even know about my Gloomurai account? And why can't he just call my phone? …Whatever.
(Idia accepts the call)
Idia: Hey, what's up? You need help with a game or something?
Ortho: Hi, big brother. How are you?
Idia: O-Ortho!? W-What's going on!?? I never knew you were into cosplay!?! Dude, that's like a god-tier setup, I can't process all this-… Wait, did you just call me big brother?
Ortho: You and I haven't met before. At least, not in this world. My name is Ortho. I'm a magical humanoid - an autonomous AI made by you.
Idia: …A magical what now?
Episode 7-110
Ortho: You and me haven't met before. At least, not in this world. My name is Ortho. I'm a magical humanoid - an autonomous AI made by you.
Idia: …A magical what now? O-Ooooh, okay, okay, I get it. You're just using an avatar, aren't you? Man, you nearly gave me a heartattack there. I see you went for the cool bishounen look.
Ortho: *sigh* I guess it's going to take some time for you to awaken…
Idia: Wait, what? Awaken? What…?
Ortho: It's okay, I don't blame you. I'm sure you've got a great life going on in there, don't you?
Idia: Umm, you're losing me here, my guy. Is this about some new anime or something?
Ortho: You need to listen to me. You've already realized there's something "off" about this world, haven't you? So I'll get straight to the point: I need you to help me save the world, Idia Shroud!
Idia: ….!! OMG this bishounen humanoid inside my computer is asking me for help?!? Wait, don't tell me what happens next, I've seen this same thing play out like a billion times before in my light novels!! The time's finally come, right!? I'm finally going to become the chosen one!!?
Ortho: BWAHAHA-!!! I mean! Ahem. That's right, big brother. The time has come. It's time for you to awaken from this dream!
Idia: Dream…? Augh!?
(The room starts to warp)
Idia: Humanoid… big brother… Ortho… No, that's all wrong! My little brother is… A-Auugh! My head feels like it's about to explode…! Ortho goes to Royal Sword Academy… No he…! He goes to Night Raven College with me…. My little brother… On that day, my little brother-…!
(Idia's phone starts to ring)
Idia: Ortho's calling me…!? Shit, my head…!
Ortho?: Big bro!? He's trying to trick you! He's a phoney, he's not real!
Idia: A-A phoney!? …Augh!! Where are all these… memories coming from…!?
Ortho?: That phoney's trying to brainwash you, big bro! Don't listen to him!
Ortho: Argh, I knew this spell would have some sort of countermeasures built into it. Looks like the NPCs are programmed to stop any dreamers when they try and wake up. That kind of autonomous magic is really high-level stuff… Guess there's a good reason Malleus-san is considered one of the top five mages in the world!
Ortho?: You wait right there for me, okay? I'm coming!
(The Darkness appears)
Ortho: W-What's all that black mushy stuff!? Oh no, is it.. Is it blot!?
Ortho?: Sorry I kept you waiting, big brother. I'm here. Everything will be okay now.
Idia: Or…Ortho?
Episode 7-111
Ortho: Don't tell me, big brother thinks that black gunk is "Ortho"? Get away from that thing, big brother! Run!!
Ortho?: It's okay now, big bro. You're just tired from playing video games for too long, that's all. Come over here and rest for a while.
Idia: U-ugh… O-Okay..
Ortho: Crap, he can't hear me anymore. Big brother run away! Get away from theeeeeere!!!
Idia: …Huh!? Why… Why am I wearing my ceremonial robes? And why am I in the courtyard?
???: Is that you, Shroud?
Idia: Eep!
Malleus: So it was you. …What ever is the matter? You look like you've seen a ghost.
Idia: M-Malleus-Shi… why are you here?
Malleus: Why…? Orientation's just about to start, isn't it?
Idia: O-Orientation?
Malleus: …Heh. Are you still half-asleep? You remind me of Silver, a student from my dorm.
Idia: Hold up… Orientation…? That was months ago…
Malleus: What do you mean? This is the first time you'll be attending orientation as a dorm warden.
Idia: U-Uhhh… Really?
Malleus: You're a strange one, you know that? Come, and let us make our way to the mirror chamber. It won't do for two wardens - and two third years at that - to arrive late.
Idia: Man, it feels like I'm forgetting something suuuper important right now… Whatever.
(something thuds in the distance)
Malleus / Idia: !?
Idia: There's a bright light in the sky… The heck is that… I-Is it a meteor!? Uhhh, doesn't it look like it's coming straight for us!? It's coming straight for us, right!??
Malleus: …What on earth is it? I don't… I don't know what it is.
Idia: Dude, why aren't you freaking out right now!? We need to RUN!! It's gonna be game over if that thing hits us. N-No, it's too late!! I need to put up a forcefield-! Uwaaaaa!!
(Something crashes into the ground)
Idia: PLEASE tell me my dead man switch fired and deleted all my shit, please, please, please… Wait.. I'm… alive?
???: Life force resonance tracking was a success. The target has been located.
Ortho: Sorry I took so long to get here, big brother!
Idia: W-Who the heck are you!? Ah! That's the Styx emblem! Are you a new power suit model that mom made? But why are you calling me big brother…?
Ortho: I'll explain later. Now get behind me! There's a scary guy glaring at us.
Malleus: What is the meaning of this, Little Shroud? You are not meant to exist within this dream. Just how did you weasel your way in here?
Ortho: Heh. Don't you remember what you told me, Malleus Draconia-san? You said I'm like a ghost. And a ghost doesn't need any reason to be able to move between dimensions and spacetime, now does it?
Malleus: Heh… Ah ha ha ha! You have my praise, for being able to astound me twice now. However, for you to have the gall to tread not once, but twice into my castle without my permission… You are brazen beyond belief, you little automaton! Stand back, you fools!
Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 7 (Part 1)
Following is part 1 of my translation of Chapter 7 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss. This part contains Episode 7-101 to 7-106
Main storyline spoilers after the cut.
Episode 7-101
Silver: Y-You’re…!
Idia: Can’t start a boss raid without a tank, and now we’re all set to go. The opening act’s DONEZO. Time for the main event! Heehee!
Sebek: J-Just what on earth is going on here!? Have we awakened from the dream?
Idia: Nah, we're still in the dream, sorry. Well, it's not really a dream. It's just a magic domain that Malleus-Shi created. I mean, just look at that armor you're wearing, dude. No way you can take that into the real world with you. 'Cause it's not really real, it's just, like, "info".
Silver: W-Wait, how do you know all this? Do you remember what happened before we fell asleep?
Idia: Uhh, it's not that I remembered everything. It's just I got a good handle on what's going on, I guess you could say.
Yuu: What do you mean?
Idia: H-Hold your horses, I'll explain later. But first… uhmm.. Ahh… I haven't really ever talked to you guys, right? Name's Idia Shroud, I'm the dormwarden over at Ignihyde.
Sebek: Ah, that's it! I was wondering why you seemed so familiar. Now I remember, you are indeed Ignihyde's warden! You appeared in that strange, plank-like form at my orientation, and I dare say this is the first time we've ever properly met.
Idia: R-Right. I just remoted into your guys' orientation on my tablet.
Sebek: And I am Sebek Zigvolt of Diasomnia! A first year of Class D, student number 33! This dullard here is my dormmate, Silver! He is a second year!
Idia: G-geez he sounds like a friggin' air horn!! Feels like my eardrums are about to explode. Hard to believe Malleus-shi's ears aren't totally busted from having to listen to that all the time...
Silver: My apologies, Idia Senpai. We'll try to keep it down. Anyways, I don't think you have to worry about your eardrums, since we're inside a dream and all, but… Ah, that's right! Everyone, stay alert!! Idia Senpai, Grim, Yuu, get behind us!
Idia: Wait, wot? Why? AUGH! Ow ow ow! I'm getting squeezed to death in a meathead-and-armor sandwich!!
Grim: Huh? What's goin' on, Silver?
Silver: Now that Idia Senpai's awake, it's only a matter of time before the Darkness appears and tries to lull him into a deeper sleep.
Grim: Crap, yer right! An' ya know what else… I bet Malleus is gonna pop up any second now and go into his stupid "HaVe yOu aWaKeNeD!?" spiel!
Sebek: The Darkness aside, I fear without Sir Lilia's aide our odds against Lord Malleus are… Nay, that matters not! Be it the Darkness or the Young Lord, we shall defeat whatever stands in our path!
Idia: Ohmigod I'm gonna die… I can't… breathe…!
???: So sorry to rain on your guys' parade, but… There's no need to worry about Malleus Draconia-san or that wiggly black stuff right now. It's likely Malleus-san is currently engaged with pouring his "resources" into keeping Lilia Vanrouge-san asleep.
Grim: Hey, that sounds like Ortho! Boy am I glad you're here, I thought we mighta lost ya back in the dream corridor. Where are you, anyway?
Ortho: Teehee, sorry for all the worry. Unfortunately, I'm unable to join you guys in big brother's dream without it causing some major problems, so we'll just have to talk through this monitor feed for now. Sorry. Anyways… My big brother appears to be suffering from oxygen deficiency judging by the pallor of his face, so could you please give him some space?
Silver: Ack, I'm so sorry!
Idia: *gasps for breathe* Uwaaaah!!! A-Another second and I was about to get yeeted into the Underworld… T-Thanks, Ortho.
Sebek: Oi, what was all that gibberish about Lord Malleus pouring "resources" into Sir Lilia?
Idia: Yeah, yeah, we're getting there. Ortho, could ya give 'em a recap?
Ortho: Roger that, big brother! I guess I'll start with how me and big brother know this is all just a dream… So on the day of Lilia-san's going away party, Malleus-san cast a spell that put all of Sage's Island to sleep… Or better said, he froze all of spacetime here. But by transforming into data and utilizing a connection I established with a communication satellite, I was able to escape.
Everyone: Communication satellite!?
Grim: The heck were ya able to do that!?
Ortho: Hehehe, it's because I'm unique! I may not be able to develop a Unique Magic, since I'm not a mage… But I was able to transmit my consciousness and my soul to a communication satellite using radio waves, and I then transferred myself into a different body. And that's something only I can do, ya know?
Sebek: I am loathe to admit it… But the technical advances that humans have brought forth truly are astounding.
Silver: Right. You and me could train and train, but we'll never be able to do what Ortho just did. He truly is unique.
Ortho: Hehheh, I'd love to hear you guys compliment me some more… But I'll get back to the story. Once I made it to Styx, I got my hands on a brand new gear.
Sebek: Styx…. 'Tis the organization that administrates the Isle of Lament, as I recall Sir Lilia explaining to us before.
Ortho: Correct. And then I worked together with Styx to infiltrate the island, so we could analyze Malleus-san's Unique Magic… Fae of Maleficence.
Episode 7-102
(A little while after Ortho and the KB-RS units departed for Sage's Island)
Ortho: This is Ortho reporting. I have reached the aerial perimeter of Sage's Island together with KB-RS01 and 02. We are now en route to the penetration point. The island's still pretty far away, but my magical energy and blot concentration sensors are going crazy. This is just like when the gates to the Underworld opened up… No, it'll be okay. I've got this new gear mom made for me, and the KB-RS units are here with me, too.
KB-RS01 / 02: Grrrr…. Woof woof!!
Ortho: This is Ortho reporting. We have reached the penetration point. Now making final preparations for descent.
Chief: Roger that. Good luck!
Ortho: Now deploying magical barrier infiltration mode. Activating counter-spell barrier. KB-RS units, deploy slicer modules and activate your ethereal slicers! Now initiating operation "Infiltrate Sage's Island"!
Ortho: Dammit, looks like this isn't going to be easy… KB-RS units! Keep on the attack!
Chief: We need to cover for Ortho. All battleships, aim your magical cannons at the barrier!
Operator A: All magical cannons are at full output! Firing in five seconds…. 3…2…1!
Chief: Fire!!
Ortho: The vines are all gathering together in that one spot to protect the island!! Looks like we should be able to get in over there, where the vines aren't so concentrated. Let's go, KB-RS units! Ethereal slicers at maximum output! We're gonna cut our way in!!
Operator A: Ortho has successfully infiltrated the barrier.
Head Engineer: …That takes care of the first hurdle. The next problem will be getting him out of there. He's only got twenty minutes before that gear loses power.
Chief: Right. Let's make sure we're prepared for whatever happens. Hurry up and get those cannons reloaded!
Staff Members: Yes, Sir!
Head Engineer: Come back safe and sound, you hear… Or-kun!!!
Episode 7-103
Ortho: ….We did it! We're inside the domain! And thanks to my counter-spell barrier, the spacetime aberrations here aren't affecting me at all.
(Time until loss of power: 20:00)
Ortho: Deploying analysis anchors!! Now running analysis! Woah, this magic is super complex… It'll take a good 17 minutes just to analyze the spell's formulation and save all this data. We'll be cutting it close, but we can make it. Just have to keep the anchors safe until the analysis is done….
(Purple lightning strikes)
???: My, my… And I was wondering just what slipped into my domain.
(Malleus appears in a column of green fire)
Malleus: Let's see here, you're… You look awfully different, but you're Little Shroud, correct?
Ortho: Malleus Draconia-san…!!! You're… So you really did overblot.
KB-RS01: Grrrr!!!
Malleus: Shouldn't you be fast asleep back at Diasomnia?
Ortho: Heh, sorry about that. But that body in the dorm lounge is nothing but a tin can now. I was able to use the wireless network to escape. Thing is, I'm an autonomous AI constructed from data, so I-… Actually, you probably won't understand even if I explain it, huh.
Malleus: In other words, you slipped out of your body, like a ghost, and found yourself a new vessel… Is that right?
Ortho: Oh, wow! That's a very fae-ish way of interpreting data transfer! But yeah, you got it. As long as there's radio waves available, I can go pretty much anywhere. …Even to the furthest reaches of space! I saw you used your magic to block off the submarine cables, but you never even thought about the satellites, didja? Magic is the power of imagination. And you can't bring to life or fight against something you don't understand. And that's exactly what I am - I'm not made out of quantum particles our spiritual energy or anything like that, I'm data. You seriously need to consider upping your security protocols! Personally, I recommend implementing UTM within your barrier.
Malleus: You-tee-em? What in the world is that supposed to stand for, I wonder.
Ortho: What the- You don't even know what that is, either? Geez. See, this is exactly why you got outwitted by your Kouhai like this. Doesn't matter if you're one of the top give mages in the world, or how ancient this spell is… You're no big deal. You'll never be able to put me to sleep with your magic!
Malleus: Heh, I see… In that case… I'll just have to smash you to pieces then, you little automaton.
Ortho: Go ahead and try! You'll see just how strong Styx… Just how strong the most advanced human technology in the world is!
Ortho (thinking): Malleus-san doesn't appear to view the analysis anchors as a threat. There's thirteen minutes left until they'll be ready… I need to buy us some time!
Malleus: My sincerest apologies, but uninvited guests really aren't welcome here. I'll be escorting you out now.
Episode 7-104
Malleus: You have my praise, it's quite astounding you've been able to maintain your sanity within my domain for this long. However… Is this really supposed to be the pinnacle of human invention? How pathetic! You haven't managed to lay even a finger on me this whole time. Fufufu…. Ahahhaha!
Ortho (thinking): Damnit! It's like everything in the domain is bending to Malleus-san's will. I don't think our attacks are even hitting him, let alone having any effect. It's like he's got this whole place in the palm of his hand…!
Malleus: Now then, let us cease with these childish games.
(Malleus explodes one of the KB-RS units)
Ortho: 01!!
Ortho (thinking): There's only 30 seconds left until the analysis is complete… Come on, we're almost there!!
Malleus: My, you look awfully pale. Do even machines feel fear? It's alright, I'll ensure you won't feel a thing when I shatter you.
Ortho (thinking): I failed… I'm so sorry, mom and dad!
(Malleus freezes for a second and then looks confused)
Malleus: !!!
Ortho: !?
Malleus: Tsch, I missed.
Ortho (thinking): What… just happened? It's like he froze for a second there. Kind of like when a CPU overloads and gets a processing failure.
(an alarm beeps)
Analysis Anchor: Analysis complete. Data has been saved to the crypto memory core.
Ortho: 02! Get all the anchors and retreat! NOW!!
KB-RS02: Grrrr!!
Malleus: How bothersome. You're nothing more than a fly buzzing around my face…Away with you!
(Malleus explodes the other unit)
Ortho: 02! Argh… But thanks to 02 distracting him, the anchors are safe. All I have to do now is get them out of here…!
(The ground starts to shake)
Malleus: …What is it now? You fools just don't know when to stop!
Ortho: This is…!
Episode 7-105
Operator B: KB-RS01 and 02 are down! 45 seconds until Ortho loses power!
Head Engineer: …He still has enough time and power to escape the domain. Don't give up!! All autopilot Charon units, activate Termination Mode! Do whatever it takes to get Ortho out of there!
Chief: All battle ships, concentrate power into the magical cannons! Raise the output and don't stop firing!!
Technician: W-We've already reached maximum output! If we go any higher, the generators are going to get fried!
Chief: I don't care! As long as we can give him some time, even ten seconds or three seconds, it doesn't matter. We just need to have Malleus concentrate on defending the barrier! Now take aim and fiiiiiire! Fire, fire fire!
Ortho: It's Styx! They're giving me backup! Now's my chance! Magical slicer, full buuurst!
Malleus: …What!?
Ortho: Uooooooo!!
Chief: Cease cannon fire! All ships, prepare for Malleus's counterstrike and activate your invisible shields!
Operator A: …Ortho has now exceeded his power limit. System down, we don't have a signal!
Chief: …No!!
Head Engineer: Or-kun…!
(An alarm blares)
Operator A: We're receiving a transmission from the Charon Tetra Unit!
Charon: This is Tetra Unit reporting! We've discovered Ortho's body floating in the water around the domain! His body is very badly damaged, but his core is unharmed. We've also recovered all the analysis anchors from the water. We're now en route back to HQ.
Everyone: We did it!! Hooraaaaay!!
(Mr. and Mrs. Shroud hug and fall to the floor in relief)
Chief / Head Engineer: Haaaahhh….
Head Engineer: Good grief... I've said this before and I'll say it again, but even if I had a hundred hearts those boys would still leave me frazzled at the end of the day….
Chief: You know what? I gotta agree with you there, sweetheart….
Malleus: …Tsch. Damn those cunning little humans… No, it matters not. They can come back as many times as they like, be it a hundred times, a thousand times, and it will always end the same… I will remove any and all uninvited guests.
Episode 7-106
Ortho: Huh? Where am I…?
Head Engineer: You awake, Or-kun?
Ortho: Mom… Dad… I…
Head Engineer: Your Cerberus Gear was heavily damaged. All we managed to recover was your core and some of the surrounding parts around it. We lost both KB-RS units in the domain.
Ortho: I see… I wanted the three of us to make it back home together…
Head Engineer: They were good boys, huh. Listen, once we get rid of that domain, I'm sure we'll be able to recover their parts. And then mama will fix them up good as new.
Ortho: I'm so sorry, I know how hard you worked on them…
Head Engineer: What are you apologizing for!! All that matters is you're safe and sound. Welcome home, Or-kun.
Chief: Welcome home, Ortho. I'm so glad you made it back safely.
Ortho: Yeah, I'm glad to be home, too.
(The Shroud family hugs each other)
Ortho: Wait, I almost forgot! What about the anchors!?
Chief: They've all been recovered safely, you guys did an excellent job. Sytx's data processing department is firing all cylinders trying to analyze everything. There's multiple, complex layers of magic comprising Malleu's domain. The way it's interwoven, it reminds me of Test Subject F… Sorry, of the ancient spell that Grim has on him. Thanks to Briar Valley's assistance, we've at least been able to ascertain how the domain is constructed.
Ortho: Already!? That's great news!
Chief: Unfortunately, it's just the opposite.
Ortho: Wait, what do you mean?
Chief: We've determined that if Malleus Draconia himself does not break his spell voluntary, or if he is not eliminated, then we only have a 0.2% chance of destroying the domain from the outside.
Ortho: No…!
Head Engineer: Everything in that domain, even the laws of reality, is under Malleus's control. We could fire the most powerful magical cannons in the world at that barrier and fight our way inside, but as soon as you're in, you're powerless. We could maybe beat him if we take about 100,000 Cerberus Gear units with us…
Ortho: We probably wouldn't even need to fight him if we had that many units. He'd be too stunned to even move…
Head Engineer: Sounds like a good idea, right? But by the time I finish making that many auto-pilot units, his domain will have likely enveloped the whole world by then.
Chief: We have a couple of other concerns, as well. The minds of all those people asleep on Sage's Island, they're all trapped within Malleus's magical barrier. And according to our analyses, we've discovered they're all currently "dreaming".
Ortho: Dreaming…? You mean the illusionary phenomenon humans experience when in REM sleep?
Head Engineer: Correct. His magic is tricking them into believing that what they're seeing in those dreams is real. It almost works like the Lethe River system, in a way. So if we go in guns a-blazing and try to destroy the barrier, we just might end up destroying everyone's minds along with it.
Ortho: I get it… It's like the domain is one huge server. And that means… Pretty much our only option is to try and convince Malleus-san to bring down the domain himself and let everybody go.
Following is my translation of the voice lines for Azul's Platinum Jacket card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🐙: What a phenomenal art collection - priceless works as far as the eye can see… This is the perfect opportunity to refine one's eye for beauty, wouldn't you say?
🐙: Appreciating the arts is the best way to strengthen one's imagination. Let us study well, and have a wonderful time today.
Home Lines
🐙: A hundred year anniversary, eh. That's simply amazing.
🐙: Floyd is as freewheeling as ever in museums. Though an eel he may be, he's nothing at all like the pair that served the Sea Witch.
🐙: I came across Vil admiring a piece of artwork very intently. When I inquired with him, he said he was simply studying the beautiful pose. I wouldn't expect anything less from a professional such as him.
🐙: It feels great to learn a piece you've had your eye on has increased in value. It's confirmation that your intuition was correct.
🐙: If there's a piece you're interested in, please don't hesitate to ask me about it. I've been studying the fine arts as part of my education, and am sure I could offer you at least a simple explanation.
🐙: Jamil-san appears to have a sharp eye for fine art, and I'll be glad to continue our acquaintanceship.
🐙: The King of the Underworld was said to be skilled in the art of negotiation. I'd love to read more about it - more so in detailed accounts, rather than just anecdotes.
🐙: Amongst those in the managerial profession, many have hobbies related to the fine arts. Being well-versed in art, music, and literature comes in great use when talking business.
🐙: I presume Ortho-san can identify counterfeits quite easily using his sensors… Perhaps if the opportunity arises, I'll inquire with him about it.
🐙: I wonder just how many merfolk the Sea Witch assisted throughout her life. She was such a mighty mage it could've been hundreds… perhaps even thousands.
🐙: This corsage was designed based on the shell the Sea Witch would wear on her necklace. It's lovely, isn't it?
🐙: Oh, my. That glimmer in your eyes… If you've taken a liking to that piece, I'd be happy to procure a reproduction for you - and I'll throw in a special discount for you, of course.
Groovy
🐙: Love is a wonderful thing. One's troubles never end when one has fallen in love, and it's a marvelous boon for those of us in the consultation business.
DUO
🐙: I could certainly use some assistance here, Jamil-san.
🐍: Well you certainly don't look it, Azul.
You can read my summary of this card's vignette over here on my twitter.
Following is my translation of the voice lines for Crowley's Raven Jacket card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🐦⬛: Good day, everyone. Now then, I shall reveal to you all the innermost secrets of magic.
🐦⬛: Is there anything you're having trouble with? If so, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. For am I so very kind, you see!
Home Lines
🐦⬛: Did you call for me?
🐦⬛: It's not only the students who look forward to the holidays - the entire school staff does, as well. The same goes for me, matter of fact!
🐦⬛: You'd like to know why I disrupt class sometimes? What sort of a question is that! All I'm doing is ensuring no one is slacking off!
🐦⬛: Hm…? Ah, I hadn't noticed my shoes had gotten a tad dirty. I'll give them a nice polish later.
🐦⬛: How is life at Ramshackle Dorm? No, no, you needn't say anything. I can already tell by that face you're making how much you simply adore living there.
🐦⬛: I'm so glad to see how dedicated you are to your studies. I wish the other students would take after you, they're all so terribly undisciplined.
🐦⬛: That ghost camera was just sitting around gathering dust in the- Erm, I meant to say, we've been following a most stringent regimen to keep it in pristine shape all this time. You best take good care of it.
🐦⬛: I never meddle with the rules and lifestyles that each dorm establishes, as I respect the students' autonomy… And I also just simply don't have time for all that.
🐦⬛: You wish to know the full extent of my powers? That's an awfully reckless thing to ask, you know. That concerns me as your principal.
🐦⬛: Excuse me! Grim's wolfing down my candy again! Please, you must watch him better!!
🐦⬛: Hm? You wish for me to instruct you personally? I do apologize, but if I did that, I'd just be taking away the teachers' jobs from them.
🐦⬛: I'm so relieved to have such a diligent, outstanding student as you. Please do continue looking after all these problem children for me.
Groovy
🐦⬛: This is Night Raven College, a prestigious arcane academy. You should feel proud to be here, never forget that.
DUO
🐦⬛: Allow me to show you how it's done, Grim-kun!
Following is my translation of the voice lines for Trey's New Year's Attire card.
Spoilers after the cut
Summon
🍀: Welcome, welcome. Now let's all enjoy ourselves a nice, quiet New Year's Sale, okay?
🍀: Happy New Year. Pretty chilly today, huh? Wouldn't want to start the New Year with a cold, so you take care.
Home Lines
🍀: Okay, I think I put this on right…
🍀: Hm? Did we already finish our holiday cleaning? That we did. The hardest part was scrubbing the stove and ventilation fans in the kitchen. Took forever.
🍀: I asked Sam-san to keep some matcha in stock for me. I want to challenge myself making some sweets with it - ones that make good use of how great it smells.
🍀: Rook made a poster advertising for the sale. He wrote a lot about how great our products are, but the text is so small and packed together it's… I think Rook might be the only one who can read it.
🍀: So this is our New Year's attire, huh… Even though the sleeves are really loose, it's actually pretty warm. And I wasn't expecting it to be this easy to move around in, either.
🍀: Ortho really is something else. Takes him all of a second to check if an item's in stock. I'm really glad to have someone so reliable as my coworker.
🍀: If you're looking for mountaineering gear, your best bet is to go ask Jade. He can tell you if something's good quality or not, and he gets all fired up when he explains things.
🍀: Oi, oi. Your nose is beet red. Here, take a hand warmer. Don't worry, I've got plenty.
🍀: What, you're looking for a scarf? Hmm… Ah, I bet Sam-san would lend you one. Just wait here, I'll go ask him.
🍀: I heard that in the East, they say the first sunrise of the New Year brings good luck. Did you get to see it?
🍀: I know it's a big sale and all, but don't get carried away and blow all your money. If you want to buy something, just take some time and consider if you really need it or not.
🍀: You going anywhere fun for the holidays? If you don't have any plans, how about working part-time at a bakery? We'll have you do all the prep work and- Hah! I'm just pulling your leg.
Groovy
🍀: Feels like I'm getting a hang of this KOMA thing. Alright, time for the next match. I'll take any of you guys on.
Duo
🍀: Could you lend me a hand, Ortho?
🤖: We'll wrap this up before they know what hit 'em, Trey-san!
Following is my translation of Jade's voice lines for his New Year's Attire card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🐬: I offer my warmest wishes for the New Year. I look forward to yet another year of your unpredictability… Heh heh.
Home Lines
🐬: It's time for work, I see.
🐬: As I hail from the northern seas, the winter climate here on Sage's Island is of no matter to me. Even wearing a scarf right now would be much too warm.
🐬: Sam-san's friends on the other side… I wonder just what type of people they are. I'd certainly love to meet them.
🐬: Rook-san has an impeccable field of vision. He comes rushing over as soon as one is in need of assistance, and it's as though he has eyes in the back of his head.
🐬: I'm very much unaccustomed to wearing Eastern-style attire, and I feel a little nervous having this on.
🐬: Ah, perfect timing, I was just practicing with the KOMA. If its alright, would you like to have a match with me?
🐬: Sam-san provided these boots for me. Not only do they pair well with this outfit, but they are also slip-resistant, and have come in great use thus far.
🐬: Trey-san was quite surprised to find we had the same style of glasses as his on display. This store certainly does have everything.
🐬: I heard Ortho-kun's gear is equipped with a heating function, and I'm concerned he might overheat.
🐬: If you haven't any plans for the holidays, might I suggest you and Grim-kun pursue a part-time job together? I have no doubt you'd find it entertaining.
🐬: There isn't a single dull moment when working at the Mystery Shop. It's been an incredibly enjoyable pursuit.
🐬: Hm? You're unable to locate the item you desire? That doesn't surprise me with how packed the store is. Please leave it to me, I'll bring it out for you.
Groovy
🐬: Ah, it seems we have our next challenger. I am but a mere amateur, so please do go easy on me.
Following is my translation of Rook's voice lines for his New Year's Attire card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🏹: Welcome to the Mystery Shop! Please do come take a look at all our wonderful wares.
🏹: Happy New Year! Quite the lovely day, isn't it? The snow is shining so spectacularly I feel as if I might bound outside at any moment to go admire it.
Home Lines
🏹: Here's to a fresh start!
🏹: Look there - see how the customers' eyes are blazing, like those of some fearsome beast prowling in the shadows. I'm certainly being kept on my toes today.
🏹: Our breath comes out before us like a white smoke, slowly curling and rising up into the winter sky. Ahh, don't you find it simply beautiful?
🏹: The Rose Chevalier is unparalleled when it comes to smoothing over any issues that might arise. He is as reliable as they come.
🏹: This fabric is reminiscent of the morning sky on New Year's, during those few precious moments before dawn. It was just the right choice for this ensemble, and simply wearing it has got me ever more determined to do well at this job.
🏹: Ortho's New Year's gear is a thing of beauty - a splendid collaboration between technology and tradition.
🏹: Jade-Kun carries himself so beautifully when tending to the customers, it's nigh enchanting to watch him work.
🏹: If you're having trouble deciding what to buy, I'd be happy to assist you. I can recommend you some makeup that would really accentuate your beauty.
🏹: Fu fu fu… Ah ha ha! They say in the East that laughter brings good fortune, and one certainly does find one's spirits lifted after giving it a try.
🏹: Ahh, this crisp air truly is the quintessence of the New Year. It's as though simply drinking it in washes all one's troubles away.
🏹: You're curious about my New Year's resolutions? Well, it would be marvelous if I can uncover new beauty within you this year.
🏹: Oh my, you're shivering so much… Come stop by the store later. I've got winter gear I often don on my mountain treks, and you'll avoiding catching a cold if you wear it.
Groovy
🏹: Non, non. You mustn't launch the KOMA so roughly, the poor thing! You must do it gently, now, and with all your heart.
Following is my translation of the voice lines for Ortho's New Year's Attire card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🤖: Happy New Year! Would you like to put together some resolutions with me? We can make some for studying and for our club endeavors, and some for having fun!
Home Lines
🤖: Time to start helping the customers!
🤖: The sound of crunching through snow is supposed to have a calming effect on a person's body. Maybe I'll change into my athletic gear one of these days and give it a try.
🤖: The games my big brother plays all start their New Year's campaigns at the same time, so he's always super busy this time of year.
🤖: It's amazing how Rook-san is able to memorize the faces of all the customers. I wonder how he- … Wait! He's not a humanoid, is he!?
🤖: A new year calls for a fresh start. That's a concept I wasn't really able to comprehend before, but I think I'm starting to now.
🤖: We use a combination of magic and technology to clean on a regular basis - both at Ignihyde and back home. So we don't really need to do any spring cleaning.
🤖: What do you think of my new gear? The design is based on Eastern apparel, and it was special made for my part-time job. It's been getting rave reviews from the customers!
🤖: I wonder why Trey-san keeps wanting to just work in the back. It's a real shame, 'cause he looks super cool in his uniform.
🤖: I hear Jade-san's been going around recommending products to the customers. And the customers have been freaking out 'cause he always seems to know what they like.
🤖: Did you finish up all your winter break assignments yet? If not, you should stop by our dorm. We've got these quiet rooms students use for precision work.
🤖: You aren't sure how to use the product you bought at the school store? Just leave it to me! I've already installed the operation manuals for everything.
🤖: Stoooop! Please use these antistatic sheets before touching me, or else we'll both just end up getting zapped.
Groovy
🤖: The KOMA's angle of incidence and launch position have been configured, and output tuning is now complete. Okay, let's have ourselves a fair fight!
Following is my translation of Ruggie's voice lines for his clubwear card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🍩: Now, I can't promise you'll see much of me durin' the match. The way I move out on that field, you'll never be able to guess what I'm gonna do next!
🍩: Guess I'll go show 'em why they call me the "disk thief". I'll snatch away their confidence, their pride, an' their will to fight before they even know what hit 'em.
Home Lines
🍩: I'll mess with 'em a little.
🍩: People far an' wide call me the 'disk thief', so maybe that means a pro team'll come scout me an'… Ahh, never mind. No use daydreamin'.
🍩: Leona-san's voice booms so much you can hear 'im clear as day over the crowds. A lion roar's somethin' else.
🍩: Last thing you wanna do is get marked by Epel-kun durin' an inter-team match. Guy never runs outta energy, an' he'll stick to ya like glue.
🍩: Just focus when ya need to focus, an' the rest of the time you can slack off- Erk, I mean, I'm always on my A-game, no matter what! That's just my style.
🍩: Even if ya can't use magic, we'd love to have ya on the team. There's loads of crap we need a manager to handle for us.
🍩: All Vargas Sensei has us do is a buncha bodybuildin' shit. It sucks, but if ya skip a meet he'll just up your reps the next time.
🍩: Spelldrive's a game only mages can play. But even though it's super popular, there ain't a lotta folks who play it. People'll admire ya just for havin' some experience.
🍩: Spelldrive's a contact sport, so elbow an' knee guards are a must. Well, not like I ever even give people the chance to hit me.
🍩: One time when I was little, I found this spelldrive disk out on the street, an' I cleaned it up an' sold it for a pretty penny. Man, that was a good find.
🍩: Dontcha think they should hand out cash prizes at our club tourneys? I'm sorry, but trophies and certs just don't cut it for motivation.
🍩: If yer gonna watch us practice, then you can handle the refreshments. I'll take sport drinks, jelly drinks, donuts - you name it!
Groovy
🍩: Okay, game's over! Shit, I was freakin' out for a moment there thinkin' we were gonna go into overtime. Got my part-time job right after this.
Following is my translation of Jack's voice lines for his apprentice chef card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
🐺: No harm in polishing your cooking skills. Just you watch, I'll be a pro by the end of this.
Home Lines
🐺: Let's do this!
🐺: Even though macarons are tiny little things they sure do take a long time to make. People who make 'em definitely got my respect.
🐺: Ace told me the Mystery Shop's got some new sweets in stock. He's always quick to get wind of that kinda stuff.
🐺: I always get on edge whenever Ruggie-senpai starts talking about cacti. There's places where people cook 'em up and eat 'em, so you never know…
🐺: As far as cooking experience goes, I don't have much besides just helpin' out at home. But I know I'll get better 'long as I put my mind to it. Hard work always pays off.
🐺: Hey, this batch actually looks pretty good. *sniff sniff* And I bet they taste good, too, with how they smell.
🐺: You should replenish your glycogen stores soon as your workout's over. A bowl of compote perks me right up, personally.
🐺: There were tons of onions in the soup they served at the cafeteria today. I was able to down a bowl somehow, but I still can't shake off the smell.
🐺: So I just have to stick 'em in the oven and wait five minutes, huh… I really don't like just standin' around doing nothing. Tsch, guess I'll just start cleaning up the kitchen.
🐺: I bet making merengue will be a great training exercise. I just gotta use the whisk and… UOOOOOOOH!!!
🐺: Dammit, I squeezed out way too much filling for this one. Guess I still need to work on my grip strength. Argh, these piping bags are a pain.
🐺: What, you liked it? Feel free to have some more, got plenty left. …D-Don't get it twisted!! I goofed up and made way too much, that's all.
Groovy
🐺: Hey, I did pretty good on this one, don't you think? Lemme try it again before I forget.
Following is my translation of Vil's voice lines for his apprentice chef card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
👑: Learning the right way to chop ingredients, and how different utensils are used… Mastering each individual step will make you look so much more refined when cooking.
Home Lines
👑: Cleanliness is holiness.
👑: If you go overboard eating sweets, just burn off the excess calories with some exercise. Skipping meals is out of the question, you'll only ruin your health.
👑: Apparently, Idia's been watching this anime that's about cooking. I wonder if he even enjoys it, though. Seeing as he's not really into food.
👑: I mastered table manners in elementary school. I can't even being to count how many times I've had to use them on the job.
👑: I make sure to use moderate amounts of oil when cooking. If you want nice, healthy skin, you need to eat high quality oil.
👑: It looks good, it tastes good - perfect. No doubt I'll get a great score. Now come on and let's get this over to the judge's table.
👑: What I love about green smoothies is how many veggies you can pack into them. And you can even add your favorite fruit and make up all sorts of new blends.
👑: I almost always eat my salads just with salt, vinegar, and oil. I haven't used store bought mayo in ages.
👑: Isn't this palette knife super stylish? All the kitchen utensils I use have to look good, too.
👑: I'm not wearing any fragrance today. Wouldn't want it to cover up how good this roasted cacao I'm using smells.
👑: Ugh, the cake's burnt. What, you think I should just use some chocolate to cover it up? Out of the question! That goes against my beauty principles.
👑: You should feel honored - it's not everyday I cook for others.
Groovy
👑: Well, of course it's delicious. I'm the one who made it, after all. Now go ahead and dig in.
Sebek Zigvolt - Armor of the Eternal Night (Voice Lines)
Following is my translation of the voice lines for Sebek's Book 7 SSR card.
Spoilers after the cut.
Summon
⚡: I must become stronger, must grow more. So that I might one day stand by the young Lord's side.
⚡: I shan't dare do anything that'd bring shame to this hallowed armor. We shall assist everyone as best we can!
Home Lines
⚡: Make haste, human!
⚡: I regret failing to take notice of the young Lord's agony sooner. From now on, I shall strive to ensure I never again overlook even the most minute change in his demeanor.
⚡: To think, we were able witness Sir Lilia during his tenure as General of the Right. What luck! I shall remember this for the rest of my life!
⚡: There's something… strange about Silver now that he no longer dozes off everywhere - even though this is really how he ought be, of course. But still, it's throwing me off.
⚡: I was permitted to don our country's traditional armor, and no words can express my pride.
⚡: 'Twas my grandfather who instilled within me my passion for reading. I greatly treasure each and every one of the books he's ever given me, and still have them all to this day.
⚡: The young Lord once mentioned before how terrifying Sir Lilia can be in his indignation, and he truly is just as fearsome as he'd described.
⚡: My grandfather was quite concerned when he noticed my eyes were swollen. It seems he's been like that since he was young - strict, but considerate.
⚡: What was the young Lord like before he was born… 'Tis something I'd never pondered until now. Oh, how I have failed him!
⚡: Not even the entire Guard joined together stands a chance against her… I wouldn't expect anything less from Lord Malleus's mother, Lady Meleanor!
⚡: Grim had the gall to begin eating before the other members of the Guard could even take their seats. You need to discipline him properly, you dolt!
⚡: You're a little weakling, you know that? Even when we're just marching you look positively haggard. Very well, then! I shall train you one of these days.
Groovy
⚡: I swear - on the Zigvolt name and on this mask - that I shall fight with honor.
